You need to obtain a safety permit before operating a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) in most of Greater London. Otherwise, you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). You now need to install the Progressive Safe System for zero, one and two star-rated HGVs.
The Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and HGV Safety Permit Scheme are part of the Mayor of London’s Vision Zero plan to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries on London’s transport network by 2041.
The DVS measures how much an HGV driver can see directly through their cab windows. This is then expressed as a star rating from zero (limited) to five (good). The star rating is fixed and dependent on the vehicle design, as it indicates the level of risk to road users such as people walking and cycling.
Vehicle star ratings are generally given at the point of manufacture. You cannot change your vehicle’s star rating, as an operator.
Whether or not the operator considers the vehicle to meet the standards, all lorries over 12 tonnes gross vehicle weight (GVW) entering or operating in Greater London need to hold a valid HGV safety permit before using the area to avoid receiving a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
